12. The Sevestar Prince Darker Version

Chapter 59

"I'm glad that you've been feeling better," Ash says to Lillie, his voice filled with relief. "Once again, I'm sorry for making you suffer like that..." His brows knit together in concern.

Lillie offers a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it," she says softly. "Thanks to the aura powers, my healing process is much faster than that of a normal human." Her eyes gleam with a hint of gratitude towards her unique abilities.

Gladion nods in agreement. "Indeed," he adds, his tone serious. "But we can't let this happen again. It's a one-time thing."

As the group of Champions continues their journey toward the next gym, Lillie finds herself temporarily taking Alice's place. Despite Alice's protests, arguing that both Ash and Lillie need rest as well, Lillie insists on shouldering the responsibility, determined to support her friends in any way she can.

As they tread along Route 8, their gazes alight upon a forest that seems unusually drained of life. Diantha, ever observant, inquires, "What happened to that forest over there?"

Ash, with a knowing expression, replies, "Don't worry about it. That's the habitat of Xerneas and Yveltal. We've established a protective barrier infused with Dark and Fairy Aura, ensuring no one can enter without capturing a Zygarde from the Underground Maze."

"Ah, the mysterious maze you mentioned in the desert," Leon recalls with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

"As we prepare to venture to Quest Town, allow me to extend a warm welcome to the esteemed RPA Academy," Ash announces proudly. "It's renowned as the top educational institution in the Sevestar Region, sought after by many." His eyes gleam with pride as he speaks. "Ms. Geeta can attest to its excellence; I myself was a student at Uva Academy, and it's the foundation of our school's exceptional standards."

Lillie adds with a nod, "Our Princess Aurora endured significant bullying in her past, which is why all our teachers are trained to address and prevent such issues effectively."

Entering the academy, they are greeted by the impressive facilities. Rosa approaches to welcome them, with Trip engaging in a battle nearby. Meanwhile, Ash and Lillie make their way to the principal's office, ensuring the security of the Dread Plate to prevent any potential theft. The tension of safeguarding such a valuable artifact is palpable in the air as they remain vigilant.

(Flashback)

As they enter the school, the tranquility is shattered by screams of horror. Without hesitation, they rush outside, only to witness a scene of chaos as Team Rainbow launches a vicious attack on the entire school. Leading the assault are Agate, Amythest, and Ambrose, their intentions clear in the chaos they sow.

"Attacking innocent students for your own goals is despicable!" Ash's voice cuts through the turmoil as he confronts Agate head-on, the fury evident in his eyes. The clash of Pokémon and trainers echoes in the air as the battle ensues, with the rest of the group joining the fray against the Rainbow Grunts.

With the combined efforts of the teaching staff and brave students rallying together, the tide begins to turn against the invaders. However, amidst the chaos and mayhem, a surprising turn of events unfolds as Amythest suddenly rebels against Ambrose and Agate. His voice carries a tone of finality as he declares, "I'm done. I'm quitting."

The tension thickens as Amythest's defiance sends shockwaves through Team Rainbow. Ambrose's disbelief is palpable as he struggles to comprehend Amythest's actions. "What in the world do you think you're doing?" he gasps, his voice laced with incredulity.

"I refuse to be part of attacking innocent people just to obtain the Legend Plate," Amythest declares firmly, her resolve unwavering despite the perilous situation.